The Lakers have added a wing to their team by reportedly signing Ziaire Williams, but they continue to look for more depth at the position.
Jonathan Kuminga has been linked to them for weeks now, but he remains a free agent. With the summer continuing and a need for more wings remaining, the Lakers are now also reportedly interested in Matisse Thybulle.
As a defensive-minded wing, Thybulle would be a good pickup for the Lakers. As currently constructed, LA’s perimeter defense appears to be a weakness, and Thybulle can help address it. He has made All-Defensive Second Team twice in his career and remains a solid defender.
Last year Thybulle put up modest numbers with the Blazers. He averaged 5.8 points and 2.0 rebounds per game, so don’t expect massive production from him if he joins the purple and gold.
However, he is a pretty good outside shooter. Thybulle shot 39.8% from 3-point range last season. And on a Luka Dončić-led team, having a defensive wing who can knock down open threes is ideal.
It’s good that the Lakers aren’t just locked in on Kuminga. He’s likely the best wing option available, but he’s unrestricted and could end up elsewhere. So, LA has to keep options open. The top priority has to be adding a player to the wing position. If that happens to be Thybulle, that would be a solid pickup. He is a good perimeter defender and can spread out the defense due to his threat as a shooter.
Whether it’s Thybulle, Kuminga, or another player, it seems pretty clear the Lakers are continuing to search for more wing options.
This deep into the offseason, things might move a bit slower in free agency. Certain big names are still out there and players looking at smaller deals don’t have to rush to sign.
So, don’t be surprised if it takes some time for the Lakers to add a wing. At this point, though, it seems most likely that they will add one to the main roster before training camp begins sometime in September.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
